Therapists in Lower Sackville, NS
I am a registered social worker with over 23 years of experience, holding a Master of Social Work with a clinical specialization from Ben Gurion University. My career began as a mental health officer, a role I held for a decade. Since moving to canada, I have worked in both the nonprofit sector, supporting individuals with disabilities in finding meaningful employment, and in the public healthcare system, focusing on community mental health. These diverse experiences have shaped my practice and deepened my commitment to meeting clients where they are.
I am a registered social worker with over 23 years of experience, holding a Master of Social Work with a clinical specialization from Ben Gurion University. My career began as a mental health officer, a role I held for a decade. Since moving to canada, I have worked in both the nonprofit sector, supporting individuals with disabilities in finding meaningful employment, and in the public healthcare system, focusing on community mental health. These diverse experiences have shaped my practice and deepened my commitment to meeting clients where they are.
Accepting NEW clients online or In person- Whether you are seeking counselling for the first time or returning for new support, it can be difficult to reach out. I work with clients who may be feeling “stuck” or “not like themselves” and wanting to work through why this might be. It could be related to relationships, mental health such as depression or anxiety, lack of confidence or self-esteem, work conflict, high self-expectations or any other number of life stressors. You are the expert in your life and use a collaborative approach to ensure you feel supported in session and empowered to use the tools provided out of session.
Accepting NEW clients online or In person- Whether you are seeking counselling for the first time or returning for new support, it can be difficult to reach out. I work with clients who may be feeling “stuck” or “not like themselves” and wanting to work through why this might be. It could be related to relationships, mental health such as depression or anxiety, lack of confidence or self-esteem, work conflict, high self-expectations or any other number of life stressors. You are the expert in your life and use a collaborative approach to ensure you feel supported in session and empowered to use the tools provided out of session.
I am a Clinical Social Worker in the Halifax area with 22 years of clinical experience. I work with adults (ages 18 years and older) experiencing a variety of struggles, including anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, ADHD, personality disorders, and managing chronic stress or disease. I work from a strengths-based approach and utilize evidence-based therapy models such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I provide sessions that are focused on your values and goals, and are delivered from an empathetic and non-judgmental stance.
I am a Clinical Social Worker in the Halifax area with 22 years of clinical experience. I work with adults (ages 18 years and older) experiencing a variety of struggles, including anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, ADHD, personality disorders, and managing chronic stress or disease. I work from a strengths-based approach and utilize evidence-based therapy models such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I provide sessions that are focused on your values and goals, and are delivered from an empathetic and non-judgmental stance.
Lori Lake
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. I am a registered social worker with over 20 years of experience. I completed my MSW degree specializing in clinical social work from U of C. I have worked in multiple health care settings with clients across the lifespan, including emergency care, primary and acute health care, life transitions, and most recently in community mental health and addictions. I am passionate about what I do and find great honor in being able to meet people where they are and helping them work through life’s challenges. I value a compassionate approach to therapy, where individuals feel heard and validated throughout their therapeutic journey.
Welcome. I am a registered social worker with over 20 years of experience. I completed my MSW degree specializing in clinical social work from U of C. I have worked in multiple health care settings with clients across the lifespan, including emergency care, primary and acute health care, life transitions, and most recently in community mental health and addictions. I am passionate about what I do and find great honor in being able to meet people where they are and helping them work through life’s challenges. I value a compassionate approach to therapy, where individuals feel heard and validated throughout their therapeutic journey.
Avani Santhoshkumar
Registered Counselling Therapist – Candidate, MA CPsy, RCT-C, EMDR
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
ATMAN Counselling Center -
The way I view human beings is that every person's life has three aspects: public, private, and inner life. Public life is what the world sees; private life is shared with close ones; but the inner life is known only to ourselves. It holds our deepest thoughts, feelings, and desires often left unspoken. We may feel confused or overwhelmed without a space to express these emotions. That’s where a therapist comes in who is not just a professional, but a compassionate companion. A therapist listens without judgment, helps us understand our emotions, and guides us toward clarity, healing, and self-awareness.
ATMAN Counselling Center -
The way I view human beings is that every person's life has three aspects: public, private, and inner life. Public life is what the world sees; private life is shared with close ones; but the inner life is known only to ourselves. It holds our deepest thoughts, feelings, and desires often left unspoken. We may feel confused or overwhelmed without a space to express these emotions. That’s where a therapist comes in who is not just a professional, but a compassionate companion. A therapist listens without judgment, helps us understand our emotions, and guides us toward clarity, healing, and self-awareness.
We will work together to explore what issues are negatively impacting on your life and proceed in the direction and pace as you determine your goals and priorities once you invite me to help guide you towards improved wellness and peace of mind.
We will work together to explore what issues are negatively impacting on your life and proceed in the direction and pace as you determine your goals and priorities once you invite me to help guide you towards improved wellness and peace of mind.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults following a neurodiversity affirming, strength based, and trauma-informed approach. While this approach is particularly supportive of neurodivergent clients, it is also valuable for clients of all neurotypes. I recognize the unique challenges that come with living in a world that does not always accommodate a neurodiverse brain and strive to create a space where clients feel understood and supported!
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults following a neurodiversity affirming, strength based, and trauma-informed approach. While this approach is particularly supportive of neurodivergent clients, it is also valuable for clients of all neurotypes. I recognize the unique challenges that come with living in a world that does not always accommodate a neurodiverse brain and strive to create a space where clients feel understood and supported!
Asking for help is not easy to do. I have great respect for the courage it takes to reach out and complete empathy for how vulnerable this can make us feel. I approach my practice with a genuine appreciation for the complexities that we experience as we journey through life. There can be a measure of comfort knowing you are not alone as you move through some of the 'sticky' stuff. That’s where counselling can help. Through collaboration and reflection, we will develop strategies specific to your needs- balancing acceptance/understanding for who we are with the need for creating change that moves you forward.
Asking for help is not easy to do. I have great respect for the courage it takes to reach out and complete empathy for how vulnerable this can make us feel. I approach my practice with a genuine appreciation for the complexities that we experience as we journey through life. There can be a measure of comfort knowing you are not alone as you move through some of the 'sticky' stuff. That’s where counselling can help. Through collaboration and reflection, we will develop strategies specific to your needs- balancing acceptance/understanding for who we are with the need for creating change that moves you forward.
The focus of my practice is on conducting psychoeducational assessments with children and youth to better understand their learning, attention, and behaviour. The goal of my assessments is to identify relevant diagnoses and challenges so that I can provide evidence-based recommendations for support at home and school. My expertise lies in assessing Specific Learning Disorder (Learning Disabilities/Dyslexia/SLD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Intellectual Disability. My clear communication of results and evidence-based recommendations help support an effective assessment and lasting change.
The focus of my practice is on conducting psychoeducational assessments with children and youth to better understand their learning, attention, and behaviour. The goal of my assessments is to identify relevant diagnoses and challenges so that I can provide evidence-based recommendations for support at home and school. My expertise lies in assessing Specific Learning Disorder (Learning Disabilities/Dyslexia/SLD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Intellectual Disability. My clear communication of results and evidence-based recommendations help support an effective assessment and lasting change.
Carla is a Registered Clinical Psychologist. She received her Master of Science Degree (Clinical Psychology) from Acadia University in 1997. Carla has been working in private practice with individuals and couples since that time. Carla offers a practical and client-centered virtual approach to help clients achieve their goals. Carla’s approach is eclectic in nature, drawing primarily from cognitive-behavioural and solution- focused therapies.
Carla is a Registered Clinical Psychologist. She received her Master of Science Degree (Clinical Psychology) from Acadia University in 1997. Carla has been working in private practice with individuals and couples since that time. Carla offers a practical and client-centered virtual approach to help clients achieve their goals. Carla’s approach is eclectic in nature, drawing primarily from cognitive-behavioural and solution- focused therapies.
I am a registered counselling therapist. I truly love the work I do and am honored to be able walk alongside folks on their therapeutic journeys. I see my role as working with you, appreciating that you are the expert of your life, and take great honor and pride when people allow me to join them on their journey. I strive to create a space that is safe, and appreciate the importance of listening and working to understand your perspective and reflect on what I hear. I approach my practice from a place of warmth and genuine care, pulling on individual strengths and values to build capacity for managing life’s challenges.
I am a registered counselling therapist. I truly love the work I do and am honored to be able walk alongside folks on their therapeutic journeys. I see my role as working with you, appreciating that you are the expert of your life, and take great honor and pride when people allow me to join them on their journey. I strive to create a space that is safe, and appreciate the importance of listening and working to understand your perspective and reflect on what I hear. I approach my practice from a place of warmth and genuine care, pulling on individual strengths and values to build capacity for managing life’s challenges.
For many people, walking into a therapist’s office can be extremely difficult and anxiety provoking. Melanie recognizes this and is dedicated to creating a therapeutic experience that is comfortable, non-judgmental, and focused on what’s most important to you. Mel will be with you every step of the way in helping you handle all issues that life throws your way as well as meeting your therapeutic goals. Mel has a gentle, non-judgemental style and believes that therapy works best when people feel comfortable and understood. Mel is currently accepting clients for in person, online and phone therapy.
For many people, walking into a therapist’s office can be extremely difficult and anxiety provoking. Melanie recognizes this and is dedicated to creating a therapeutic experience that is comfortable, non-judgmental, and focused on what’s most important to you. Mel will be with you every step of the way in helping you handle all issues that life throws your way as well as meeting your therapeutic goals. Mel has a gentle, non-judgemental style and believes that therapy works best when people feel comfortable and understood. Mel is currently accepting clients for in person, online and phone therapy.
My name is Heather Astroff and I am a registered clinical social worker. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work from McGill University and a Master of Social Work from New York University. have been a practicing clinician for over twenty-five years in healthcare and community based mental health settings. As a therapist, partner and mother of two, I understand the joys and struggles of keeping our complex lives in balance.
My name is Heather Astroff and I am a registered clinical social worker. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work from McGill University and a Master of Social Work from New York University. have been a practicing clinician for over twenty-five years in healthcare and community based mental health settings. As a therapist, partner and mother of two, I understand the joys and struggles of keeping our complex lives in balance.
Now accepting clients.
As a firefighter nearing the end of my career, I am committed to continuing my passion for helping others through psychotherapy. I understand the unique challenges faced by first responders and support individuals dealing with emotional and psychological difficulties, including depression, stress, anxiety, and trauma. I welcome anyone seeking assistance with mental health concerns. If you feel like something is out of place but you cannot quite put your finger on it, we should talk.
Now accepting clients.
As a firefighter nearing the end of my career, I am committed to continuing my passion for helping others through psychotherapy. I understand the unique challenges faced by first responders and support individuals dealing with emotional and psychological difficulties, including depression, stress, anxiety, and trauma. I welcome anyone seeking assistance with mental health concerns. If you feel like something is out of place but you cannot quite put your finger on it, we should talk.
A lot of people come to therapy feeling stuck. Maybe in their relationships, in their own heads, or just in life in general. There’s this longing for more connection, more peace, and to just feel okay again. Things like anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, or anger can get in the way and make it hard to break those patterns, even when you really want to. Therapy can be a place to slow down, get real about what’s going on, and start untangling it all. It’s not about fixing everything overnight or being perfect, it’s about feeling more like yourself, more in control, and more connected to the people and life that matter to you.
A lot of people come to therapy feeling stuck. Maybe in their relationships, in their own heads, or just in life in general. There’s this longing for more connection, more peace, and to just feel okay again. Things like anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, or anger can get in the way and make it hard to break those patterns, even when you really want to. Therapy can be a place to slow down, get real about what’s going on, and start untangling it all. It’s not about fixing everything overnight or being perfect, it’s about feeling more like yourself, more in control, and more connected to the people and life that matter to you.
I have experience working with diverse populations through community-based organizations. I offer counselling services to adults living with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal relationship issues, in-person and remotely. I also offer counselling services to children through a Non-Directive and Directive Play Therapy model. I can also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy sessions. I am a proud Muslim Syrian-Canadian and see my experience as an immigrant to be of value when working with refugees, newcomers, minorities and individuals from varying backgrounds. I can offer counselling services in Arabic and English.
I have experience working with diverse populations through community-based organizations. I offer counselling services to adults living with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal relationship issues, in-person and remotely. I also offer counselling services to children through a Non-Directive and Directive Play Therapy model. I can also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy sessions. I am a proud Muslim Syrian-Canadian and see my experience as an immigrant to be of value when working with refugees, newcomers, minorities and individuals from varying backgrounds. I can offer counselling services in Arabic and English.
Jennifer Shadbolt
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, MSc, MEd, RCT-C
7 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4G
I offer counselling therapy for the often unseen layers of Women’s Mental Health. Although growth is a life-long process, healing shouldn’t be. This is why I am trained in specific therapies that offer rapid healing opportunities, so you can focus on growth and living a life that brings you more moments of calm, joy, and peace.
To support our time together, I am trained in a number of therapy modalities, including Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and trauma- focused psychotherapies, such as the sought-after, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
I offer counselling therapy for the often unseen layers of Women’s Mental Health. Although growth is a life-long process, healing shouldn’t be. This is why I am trained in specific therapies that offer rapid healing opportunities, so you can focus on growth and living a life that brings you more moments of calm, joy, and peace.
To support our time together, I am trained in a number of therapy modalities, including Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and trauma- focused psychotherapies, such as the sought-after, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
I truly believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, however some of my areas of interest include: stress, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, self-esteem and exploring inner child work. I personally believe in a client-centered approach and will draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities such as CBT or Internal Family Systems, however my personal philosophy is to work from an integrative, psychodynamic lens.
I truly believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, however some of my areas of interest include: stress, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, self-esteem and exploring inner child work. I personally believe in a client-centered approach and will draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities such as CBT or Internal Family Systems, however my personal philosophy is to work from an integrative, psychodynamic lens.
I provide assessment services to children and youth, including psychoeducational and ADHD assessments. I also provide updated assessments and verification letters for college and university students to access Post-Secondary Accessible Services. I have 21 years experience supporting children, youth and their families in the school system and I currently works as a school psychologist in the public school system. This allows me to bring a current perspective to how clients can be supported at school.
I provide assessment services to children and youth, including psychoeducational and ADHD assessments. I also provide updated assessments and verification letters for college and university students to access Post-Secondary Accessible Services. I have 21 years experience supporting children, youth and their families in the school system and I currently works as a school psychologist in the public school system. This allows me to bring a current perspective to how clients can be supported at school.
Welcome! I work with children, youth and adults. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for all clients. My goal is for clients to feel seen and heard by honouring their values and beliefs. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key to fostering a safe and supportive environment. My approach is very collaborative, as this helps provide a deep understanding of the client’s goals, needs and values.
Welcome! I work with children, youth and adults. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for all clients. My goal is for clients to feel seen and heard by honouring their values and beliefs. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key to fostering a safe and supportive environment. My approach is very collaborative, as this helps provide a deep understanding of the client’s goals, needs and values.
Nearby Searches for Lower Sackville
- Bedford
- Cole Harbour
- Dartmouth
- Elmsdale
- Enfield
- Fall River
- Halifax
- Hammonds Plains
- Middle Sackville
- Tantallon
- Timberlea
- Upper Tantallon
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Lower Sackville, NS
50+
Average cost per session
$170
Counsellors in Lower Sackville, NS who prioritize treating:
| 90% | Anxiety |
| 85% | Relationship Issues |
| 80% | Depression |
| 76% | Self Esteem |
| 76% | Stress |
| 58% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 53% | Women's Issues |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 83% | Blue Cross |
| 76% | Medavie Blue Cross |
| 57% | Manulife |
How Counsellors in Lower Sackville, NS see their clients
| 93% | In Person and Online | |
| 7% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 93% | Female | |
| 7% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Lower Sackville?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postal code, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postal code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postal code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.